Conservation Lands

The Town manages over 1,400 acres of conservation land in Concord. Some of the more popular areas include the Hapgood Wright Town Forest, Punkatasset Conservation Area, and October Farm Riverfront. Conservation lands are open to the public, subject to certain Rules and Regulations and visitors are encouraged to enjoy these areas. Certain activities require a Land Use Permit from the Division of Natural Resources (DNR). Please contact the DNR with any questions at 978-318-3285.

Click here to view individual trail maps and guides completed by the Trails Committee that provide information about the historical and ecological treasures each property possesses, as well as, links to adjacent Town and regional trail systems.

The 7/19/18 Concord Journal included a letter from the NRC
regarding dogs on conservation land. Due to word count limits, the full article was unable to be published, but can be viewed by clicking here.

Clickhere for a list of Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs on Conservation Lands

Clickhere for New Dog Regulations Adopted by the NRC on December 20, 2017

Clickherefor a Map of NRC Lands and Leash Requirements, and here for a List of NRC Properties and Trails Evaluated for a Leash Restriction

Clickherefor the letter sent to Concord households with registered dogs.

Important Information on Ticks in Concord

Unfortunately, the deer tick population is increasing, and the number of pathogens that are transmitted by ticks is on the rise too. Ticks are prevalent on conservation lands, as well as yards, golf courses, and orchards. Not all ticks carry pathogens, but many do. Please be aware of the hazards of deer ticks, how to avoid being bitten, and what to do if you have been bitten. For more information, please click here or visit the Health Division’s webpage http://www.concordma.gov/717/Tick-borne-Diseases.

Three public meetings will be held over the next several weeks to review public comment and determine next steps. All meetings will be held at 141 Keyes Road, 1st Floor Meeting Room.

Due to recent increases in dog activity, and conflicts between dogs, wildlife, and other trails users and uses, the Natural Resources Commission held a public hearing on May 11, 2017 to consider leash restrictions at some of Concord's conservation lands, including Punkatasset, Mattison Field, and farmlands on conservation land.

Click here to see the Powerpoint Presentation regarding Dogs on Conservation Land.

At the July 27, 2017 meeting, the Natural Resources Commission reviewed a Working Plan to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users on conservation lands. If you are interested in working with the NRC on any of the three focus areas, please email Natural Resources Director Delia Kaye at dkaye@concordma.gov with the area that you are interested in and your contact information.

After several months of discussion, the NRC has developed reports from the Education, Effective Control, and Dog Waste Subcommittees. New Dog Rules were also developed, as well as a report on the Natural Resources Values of Concord's most popular Town conservation lands. Click on the links below to see these reports.